Kataragama, Sri Lanka – The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya has officially announced the schedule for its annual Esala Festival, a significant cultural and religious event in Sri Lanka. The planting of the Kaps, marking the commencement of festival preparations, was carried out on May 13, 2025, an auspicious date as decreed by the ancient King Dutugemunu.
The festival is set to begin 44 days later, with the first procession scheduled for June 26, 2025. The Esala Festival will feature a series of vibrant processions, culminating in the grand Water Cutting ceremony on July 11, 2025, at the Jeevamali Ferry on the Kataragama Menik River.
Schedule of Processions :
– June 26 : First Procession
– June 27 : Second Procession
– June 28 : Third Procession
– June 29 : Fourth Procession
– June 30 : Fifth Procession
Special Events :
– July 01 : Alms Giving at Basnayaka Walawwa, Renewal of the Shelter (Athupandalama) in front of the Maha Dewale, and the Basnayaka Nilamema begins walking in the procession according to ritual, followed by the Sixth Procession.
– July 07 : Fire Walking Ceremony, followed by the Thirteenth Procession.
– July 11 : The grand Water Cutting Ceremony at the Jeevamali Ferry on the Kataragama Menik River, marking the conclusion of the festival.
Daily Processions :
– July 02 : Seventh Procession
– July 03 : Eighth Procession
– July 04 : Ninth Procession
– July 05 : Tenth Procession
– July 06 : Eleventh Procession
– July 07 : Twelfth Procession
– July 08 : Fourteenth Procession
– July 09 : Fifteenth Procession
– July 10 : Final Procession
The Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya invites all devotees and tourists to partake in this historic celebration, seeking blessings from Lord Muruga. The Esala Festival not only highlights religious devotion but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
May the blessings of Lord Muruga be upon all!
Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya
